Connecting Communities
“A huge thank you to each and every one of our volunteers. Every single day we are grateful for the tremendous work our volunteers do.”, Dr Liz Walker.
National Volunteer Week
National Volunteer Week (19-25 May 2025) is an annual celebration recognising the vital support that volunteers provide to their communities. At RSPCA Victoria, our volunteers are essential to the care we’re able to provide to animals in need.
The theme of this year’s National Volunteer Week is ‘Connecting Communities’, celebrating the power of volunteering to bring people together.
This is particularly relevant for us with the roles and contributions of our 1,360 volunteers all incredibly varied and unique. Whether it is supporting the daily care and enrichment of shelter animals, providing respite from shelter life through foster care, assisting customers in our op shops, helping at events like our upcoming Million Paws Walk, in many administrative areas across the organisation or much more, each and every one is making a difference.
To our volunteers – thank you for all you contribute to our vision in ending cruelty to all animals. Your time and skills are invaluable to our organisation, and we (and our animals) are fortunate to have your support. It is thanks to your continued dedication, compassion, and patience that we’ve remained operational for over 150 years, providing high-quality care and support to animals in need.
Please join us in celebrating the good will of RSPCA Victoria’s incredible volunteers by watching this special video.
Meet some of our amazing volunteers!
Abbey
Roles: Kennels, Cattery and Small Animals Assistant and a member of the Volunteer Representative Committee
Volunteering for: 2 years
“I love seeing long term dogs get adopted because it brings such joy to everyone who’s cared for and supported them.”
Emma
Roles: Corporate Support Day Chaperone and a Storeroom Assistant
Volunteering for: 2.5 years
“I enjoy working alongside fellow volunteers who share the same vision of ending cruelty to all animals.”
Dr Joe
Roles: RSPCA Victoria Board Member and Community Vaccination Day Veterinarian
Volunteering for: 2 years
“I believe that volunteering is profoundly important for the well-being of individuals and the community that they serve.”
Kay
Roles: Foster Carer, Foster Care Resources Support Assistant and Garden Maintenance Assistant
Volunteering for: 7 years
“Being a foster carer allows me to provide animals with a happy and safe environment until they’re ready to find their forever home.”
Emma
Roles: Retail/eCommerce Assistant
Volunteering for: 10 years
“I enjoy being part of a team and helping our retail customers have a positive experience when they visit the store.”
Emma
Role: Community Outreach Volunteer
Volunteering for: 1.5 years
“I’m proud to be a member of the Community Outreach team and to be making a real difference to pet owners who want to provide the best care for their animals but are struggling with the cost of living.”
Jan
Role: Op Shop Assistant
Volunteering for: Nearly 3 years
“I love the team spirit here at the op shop and helping customers find exactly what they’re looking for.”
Ray
Roles: Animal Transport Driver and a member of the Volunteer Representative Committee
Volunteering for: 6.5 years
“I’ve transported animals for RSPCA Victoria for over six years now — it’s been one of the most rewarding and meaningful experiences of my life.”
